The Nissan March (also known as the Micra in some markets) from the early 2000s is a popular choice in New Zealand for its fuel efficiency and ease of parking. As a compact city car, they've been a common sight on our roads for years. But, like any older vehicle, they have certain quirks and maintenance needs to look out for.
Common issues include timing chain rattle (listen carefully on startup), oil leaks from the valve cover gasket and rear main seal, and worn suspension components (especially the front struts and sway bar links). Rust can be an issue, especially around the wheel arches and underbody. Also check for any signs of automatic transmission problems, such as slipping or rough shifting.
WOF tips
During a WOF inspection, pay close attention to the condition of the brakes, particularly the brake pads and rotors. Check for rust in the usual areas, and ensure the tyres have adequate tread depth. Headlight alignment and operation of all lights is essential. Ensure the seatbelts are functioning correctly and not frayed or damaged.
About the Nissan March i 16V
The March is known for its small size, making it ideal for navigating urban environments. Equipped with small-capacity engines, they offer excellent fuel economy, which is one of the main reasons they're popular. Because of their affordability and being a great first car, many March models have seen a number of owners. Regular servicing is key to keeping these little cars running smoothly, especially given that many owners may have skimped on maintenance along the way. Be extra vigilant when inspecting the body for dents and rust indicating the car had careless owners.
Questions owners ask
What are the common issues to look out for with a NISSAN MARCH 2000–2003 in New Zealand?
Owners of the NISSAN MARCH 2000–2003 often report issues such as timing chain rattle, especially noticeable on startup. Oil leaks from the valve cover gasket and rear main seal are also common. Worn suspension components, particularly the front struts and sway bar links, are frequently encountered. Rust can be an issue, especially around the wheel arches and underbody. It's also wise to check for automatic transmission problems like slipping or rough shifting during a test drive.
What should I pay attention to during a WOF inspection for my NISSAN MARCH 2000–2003?
For a NISSAN MARCH 2000–2003 WOF inspection, pay close attention to the condition of the brakes, including brake pads and rotors. Check for rust in common areas like wheel arches and the underbody. Ensure tyres have adequate tread depth, and that headlight alignment and all other lights are fully operational. Finally, confirm seatbelts are functioning correctly and are free from fraying or damage.
Where can I get replacement brake pads and rotors for my NISSAN MARCH 2000–2003 in NZ?
CARFIX stocks a wide range of parts for the NISSAN MARCH 2000–2003. You can find replacement brake pads (BRAKE PADS FRONT, BRAKE PADS REAR) and rotors (DISC BRAKE ROTOR FRONT) specifically for your vehicle through CARFIX. We have 291 SKUs available for this model.
How often should I service my NISSAN MARCH 2000–2003?
The recommended service interval for the NISSAN MARCH 2000–2003 is every 10,000km. Given that many of these cars have had multiple owners and may have missed maintenance, regular servicing is crucial to keep these small-capacity engine vehicles running smoothly and to maintain their excellent fuel economy.
Is the NISSAN MARCH 2000–2003 a good first car for city driving in NZ?
Yes, the NISSAN MARCH 2000–2003 is an excellent choice for city driving in New Zealand. Its small size makes it ideal for navigating urban environments and parking. Equipped with small-capacity engines, it offers excellent fuel economy, which is a significant benefit for city commuters. However, due to its affordability and popularity as a first car, many models have seen multiple owners, so a thorough pre-purchase inspection is highly recommended to check for engine, automatic transmission, and rust issues.